"Cowboy Indian Alliance" says 'no' to Keystone

April 22 - Ranchers, farmer and tribal communities are protesting against the proposed Keystone XL Pipeline that would bring oil from Canada's oil sands to Texas. Jillian Kitchener reports.

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Old rivals become allies.
A group of ranchers, farmers, and tribal communities have joined forces in Washington, DC.
They're known as the "Cowboy Indian Alliance".
And they're lighting a fire under President Obama to reject the proposed Keystone pipeline: a $5.4 billion project that would pump crude oil from Alberta to Texas.
(SOUNDBITE) (English) CHEYENNE RIVER SIOUX TRIBE MEMBER CHAS JEWETT SAYING:
"And we just want President Obama to know and Secretary Kerry that this decision will be heard for generations."
It's a heated debate that's not going away any time soon.
Proponents say the pipeline would create jobs, and bolster energy security.
Those against the pipeline say it poses a threat to the climate, land, water and tribal rights.
(SOUNDBITE) (English) PISCATAWAY TRIBE CHIEF BILLY RED WING TAYAC SAYING:
"You sure can't eat oil. So remember that if you go pro pipeline. When it spills it damages crops, land, etc. Where do we go? It is our obligation to protect the Earth Mother."
Canada's oil industry applied to build the pipeline six years ago but needs Washington to agree.
On Friday, the Obama administration said it would allow more time for federal agencies to weigh in on the project, setting no new deadline for comments.
This group wants a firm "No" from the President.
(SOUNDBITE) (English) INDIAN PEOPLE'S ACTION DIRECTOR MICHAELYNN HAWK SAYING:
"Because of the fact that we need clean water, you know, and that's what it really boils down to."
"Reject and Protect" -- A simple message to a complicated decision.

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